For Pookie Los Angeles, there is nothing greater on this green earth than great, underground music. More specifically, great, underground music that comes out of Los Angeles. LA is home to the world's most innovative artists, creatives from all over the globe trek to the City of Angels in pursuit of their dreams. It's Truly Inspiring. Over the past year, Pookie has discovered so many talented individuals pushing the boundaries of genre and artistic style, it's exciting to witness the evolution of music right before our eyes. With all that being said, Pookie is ecstatic to present: 23 Rising Stars of 2023. These individuals are all exceptional in their crafts, they're responsible driving the art forward, our trusted tastemakers. These are Pookie's Picks of 2023. You're Welcome.
1. ASHA IMUNO
Photo by Zack Doepp
This artist is truly, undoubtedly groundbreaking. Asha Imuno (@asha.imuno) hailing from Moreno Valley and now taking Hollywood by the horns, is one of the most prominent names in LA’s music scene. Merging soul, hiphop, and R&B influences, his sound can be described as Andre 3000 meets Kendrick Lamar meets Smino, basically his tracks are really really really really really dope. He’s also the founder of WAITINGROOM, a live performance & immersive experience that occurs every so often in LA, in which the proceeds are donated to the Melanin Youth Foundation, a non-profit based in Riverside that teaches local kids how basic life skills that schools may not teach. Asha Imuno is a name that you will definitely be hearing increasingly often, so you might as well make yourself familiar. Check his music out here.
2. Kid Sistr
Photo by Kyla Rain
Comprised of Sabel, Sarah Keden, and Rebecca Webster, these three unbelievably talented musicians are on track to become one of the coolest bands stimulating the South Land. Kid Sistr (@kid_sistr) released 3 singles in 2022, “T-Shirt” became one of my favorite songs of the year, and their nest single “X-Tape” is dropping very soon. Take Pookie’s advice & check out Kid Sistr here, get to know them before they blow up.
3. Alé Araya
Photo by Catalina Pinotti
2022 was a fantastic year for Alé Araya (@alejanji). The queer songwriter and producer released a handful of impressive works, including fan favorites like “Janet”, “Orange Juice”, and “Citrine”, all of which combined garnered nearly 2 million streams. Her experimental sound is a unique blend of Y2K house, hiphop, and R&B influences. Alé Araya has also worked with notable artists like Merlyn from BROCKHAMPTON, Curtis Waters, and fellow Pookie-Favorite Asha Imuno. Fall in love with her current discography on Spotify here.
4. Mykel Online
Mykel Online (@mykel.online) is an artistic force that Pookie has been following for years. Hailing from Miami, Mykel is one of the most original creatives in every sense of the word. He spends his days writing and producing music, 3D modeling, DJing sets around LA, and directing music videos. Mykel Online’s sound is experimental and genre blending, each record an intricately digitalized emo-indie-pop masterpiece. This past year was his biggest yet, his artistic reach grew dramatically, and 2023 is set to be even bigger. He’s also half of newly-formed superduo memorex, who released their highly successful debut self-titled album in 2022. Find Mykel Online on a streaming service near you. Immediately. Right Now. Click here for his Spotify.
5. My Favorite Color
Bouncing between the musical scenes of Pittsburg and LA, My Favorite Color (@myfavoritecolor) is an important artist to know when considering the next generation of great hiphop musicians. DJ Booth called MFC “the sonic child of Mac Miller and MF DOOM.” and I whole heartedly agree. His style is incredibly versatile. His discography offers options of vibey, lighthearted and at times humorous songs, while other tracks take on more somber, serious storylines. He’s released a good chunk of material in 2022, and we’re stoked to see what this impressive artist has in store 2023. Check out My Favorite Color’s music here.
6. Daniel Price
Photo by Khufu Najee
“Video Girl” by Daniel Price (@ddanielprice) has been stuck in my head for the past four and a half months and I’m not mad. I discovered the Boston-born artist through word of mouth via his performance at the Laurel Canyon Country store. After listening to Price’s work on Spotify, I understand (and have added) to the buzz around this rising R&B persona. What stands out to Pookie about Daniel Price, apart from his undeniably rich vocal and the enthralling soundscapes in his music, is his eye for visuals. His music videos have a cinematic quality to them that is really beautiful. Also legendary camera wizard Khufu Najee is directing them so it makes total sense. The Boston native is certainly an artist to keep on your radar for 2023, check out his released works here and stimulate your audio canal.
7. Amaria McGee
If you’ve been following Pookie then you should be familiar with R&B siren Amaria McGee (@amariamcgee). We wrote a piece on her collab with DESTIN CONRAD back in October, which you can find here if you’d like to educate yourself. Amaria McGee, originally from Tampa, is one of the dopest R&B artists currently operating in LA. Her voice is completely mesmerizing, hypnotizing the listener with every word. Often singing atop smoky, mellow instrumental productions, she’s also very fond of the harp, which her songs often utilize and she even has a harpist friend accompany her on stage. Amaria also has a strong penchant for visuals, her entrance into the music industry was directing music videos for other rising artists, before she started releasing music of her own. And we thank our lucky stars she did because our ears have been changed for the better. Listen to Amaria McGee here, if you know what’s good for you.
8. Devon Again
Photo by Max Christiansen
Devon Again (@trashytrashy) stole our ears in 2022 and and we hope she never gives them back. A Denverite with a killer vocal ability, her lyrics are insanely clever and provoking, and her records push the envelope of musical creativity. Devon Again‘s personality is initially what attracted fans, she would post regularly on TikTok showcasing her songwriting and awesome voice as well as her cool, funny self. Fans were eagerly awaiting her releases, and with each one it’s clear she’s part of the upper echelon of rising musicians based in the City of Angels. Pookie personally recommends listening to “Head” and “gum v9.1”, all of Devon Again's songs are dope but these two hit especially nicely IMO. Check out her work here.
9. Selina
Originally from Portland, alternative R&B singer and songwriter Selina (@selinaraii) officially made the move to Los Angeles in 2022. Pookie had the pleasure of seeing Selina perform live a few times over the past year, and her vibe and stage presence is awesome and organic. She’s performed at multiple Sunday Sounds, which are LA day festivals put on by That Good Sh*t and Green Tea Studios that aim to boost the best underground music artists. When listening to her music, you’ll pick up Californian coastal vibes, nostalgia and distortion, and the easiness of acoustic guitars. “16” by Selina is definitely one of my favorite songs and is consistently stuck in my head. Her lyrics are often introspective, diary-like entries that cover both the good and the bad, light and the dark. Check out Selina’s music here, and make sure you keep your eyes peeled for what she does in 2023.
10. Cliftun
Photo by Augustine
Cliftun (@cliftun) is an artist that Pookie has been following for years, and it’s our pleasure to include him in our 2023 list of rising stars. I first was introduced to Cliftun in 2019 after seeing videos of his live performance for his debut project “The Poetry in Violence, Act 1” in which he took the stage, covered in a black veil and surrounded by roses. Cliftun is known for being captivating, visceral, raw, and artistically sophisticated. His work is extremely versatile, every song hits, and you can feel Cliftun’s essence seeping through the lyrics and production. Pookie has seen this artist perform live in the flesh a few times, and he’s truly in his own world. Almost like he’s possessed, Cliftun performs from his soul, unaffected any other stimulus in the room. Check out his latest track “LANA”, a demo that’s been gaining a lot of traction online here.
11. Junior Mesa
Photo by Noah Kentis
Junior Mesa (@juniorrrjunior) is easily one of my favorite and one of the most impressive artists I discovered in 2022. Since starting Pookie, it’s been my job to find and learn about up and coming artists around LA. And Junior Mesa makes me really like my job because his music is fantastic. His records are an ode to the 70’s, a period of music history Junior Mesa is exceptionally fond of. Funky, experimental, alternative, and soulful, Mesa’s work is an eclectic mix of great taste. He a self-taught virtuoso, playing the drums, guitar, piano, and bass parts of his songs himself. He also writes all of his material, further proving the artistic prowess of the 22-year-old artist. Peep his work on Spotify here, become familiar with an amazingly talented individual.
12. Maddy Davis
Photo by Eric Daniels
Maddy Davis (@maddyjdavis), the original middle kid, and a Pookie favorite, of course we had to feature this talented artist on our list of rising stars. Born and raised on the East Coast, self-taught vocalist, songwriter, and producer Maddy Davis migrated to the Southland and had an extremely successful 2022. She released her debut EP “Mud”, an expertly and thoughtfully crafted 6 track indie-rock-pop project, and performed more shows than I can count. Pookie was in the audience for her performances at the HERE FOR LA festival in December and at an awesome gig by 29th St. Productions, and we can confidently confirm she is awesome live. We did a Pookie Profile on Maddy Davis a few weeks back, if you wanna learn more in depth about here check that out here. Definitely keep Maddy Davis on your radar for 2023, visit her Spotify page now.
13. Monét Ngo
Photo by Johnny Villarin
A kindergarten teacher turned indie pop star seemingly overnight, Vietnamese-American musician Monét Ngo (@monetngo) is without a doubt one of Pookie’s favorite discoveries of 2022. This past year saw Monét release his first singles and his debut album “After School Club”, which earned him key placements on various Spotify playlists, over 200,000 devoted monthly listeners, and millions of streams. My favorite songs of his are probably “Lonestar”, which I listen to at least once a day, and “Bleachers”. Monét Ngo’s sound is a refreshing mashup of indie, rock, punk, and R&B influences. Feels like romanticized existential angst mixed with excitement, which feels very relatable to Pookie. Do some good for yourself in 2023 and listen to “After School Club” the debut album from Pookie favorite Monét Ngo here.
14. TiaCorine
Photo by NickDaFlick
Surely you’ve heard of TiaCorine (@tiacorine). 2022 was her year and 2023 is about to be too. Born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, TiaCorine grew up performing at talent shows and being tastefully exposed to great music by her parents. Today, she has millions of loyal monthly listeners, is signed to South Coast Music Group, Pitchfork recently named her single “FreakyT” one of the best songs of 2022, and on top of it all she is a kickass mom to her daughter. TiaCorine is a legend in the making, on track for serious greatness. Listen to “FreakyT”, “Lotto”, and more from TiaCorine right here right now.
15. Buppy.
Photo by Katy Ferris
BUPPY. BUPPY. BUPPY.. Pookie loves Buppy. (@buppyfather). At just 21 years old, Utah native Buppy. really is killing it. The musician released a slew of captivating tracks in 2022, including “Open My Letter” and “Cold Nights In Hollywood”, both earning him millions of streams. Buppy.‘s discography you’ll find is extremely diverse, the artist explores and blends different genres all the time, with some tracks falling under the scope of alternative emo-pop and others falling into more of an indie hiphop realm. The singer/songwriter has been a Pookie favorite for the past year, landing multiple placements on our weekly I <3 Los Angeles Spotify playlist. Educate yourself on one of the greatest young artists in LA, listen to Buppy.’s work here.
16. Flyana Boss
Photo by SJ Spreng
Flyana Boss (@flyanaboss). Just saying the name gives me goosebumps. A wildly talented duo, half Detroit half Dallas, Flyana Boss is a prominent name when it comes to LA’s underground rap/hiphop circles. These two impressive women have been steadily blazing their trail, crafting witty, humorous raps one after another. But the component that sets FB apart from the rest is their creative genius. They utilize samples and put their own signature twists on familiar classics, especially on their unreleased track “Mamma Mia”, a cheeky rap song built upon a sample from Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”. Their live shows truly are the real gold though. Their energy is unmatched, their true power unleashes on the stage. For those who have been consistently following Pookie, you’re aware of Flyana Boss. And if you aren’t but you still say that you consistently follow Pookie, then you’re a fake fan. Flyana Boss is here to stay, and we know they’ll continue on their path to success. Check out their discography here, don’t be dumb and take Pookie’s recommendation. You’re Welcome.
17. Tommy Richman
Photo by Nick Dybel
This artist is another of my favorite discoveries of 2022. Originating from Woodbridge, Virginia, Tommy Richman (@tommyrichman.png) is now not-so-casually shaking things up in the underground music scene of LA. His sound is invigoratingly fresh, a culmination of indierock, pop, hiphop, and R&B vibes, Tommy is definitely one of my favorite musical artists, period. His song “ELECTRIFY TONIGHT” is perfection, reminding me of all the best parts of Empire Of The Sun but with a punchier, punkier approach. Totally Amazing. Tommy Richman actually released his latest track “I GOT THE LOVE” featuring Nate Dae and Merlyn Wood of BROCKHAMPTON yesterday, and it is very very very dope. Pookie loves Tommy Richman and you should too, peep his music here.
18. Jonah Roy
In 2022, St. Louis native Jonah Roy (@jonahdotroy) definitely cemented himself as one of the most promising up-and-comers operating in Los Angeles’s indie music scene. Pookie has been lucky enough to see Jonah live a couple times, and I recommend in 2023 you make sure you are too. The 20 year old alt. pop/punk musician released 5 impressive singles last year, “Pressure” and “Fuck That!” notably caught Pookie’s attention, and also that of some major record labels around LA. Jonah Roy often times works with fellow St. Louis tastemaker jackwoods, who’s hand in production takes each record to the next level. Click here to immerse yourself in the sounds of Jonah Roy. You’ll be glad you did.
19. Mallory Merk
Born in Louisiana, raised in New York, songbird Mallory Merk (@mallorymerk) now flutters around LA serenading us all with guitar filled tracks about the wins and the woes of being 20something in our postmodern world. Her honesty, vulnerability, vocal flair, and story telling ability combined make for a hell of an entertainer. Pookie saw Mallory Merk perform live back at the last Sunday Sounds festival, put together by That Good Sh*t and Green Tea Studios. And we can confirm she is definitely worth listening and equally as impressive live if you can catch one of her performances. Pookie strongly recommends “Ghosts” and “North American Ride” for your listening pleasure, check them out and more of her music here.
20. Amindi
Born and raised in Inglewood to Jamaican parents, Amindi (@amindi) grew up listening to hip-hop with her older brothers and cousins, while also being exposed to artists like Sizzla, Bob Marley, and Hezekiah Walker by her parents. She began writing and rapping at a young age, honing her craft and artistic panache, and even performed for the Prime Minister of Jamaica a few years back. Since then, Amindi hasn’t slowed down, she’s been in her lane steadily climbing the ranks to the top. Today she boats over half a million monthly listeners, thanks to her intricate lyricism, snappy hooks, and captivating production. Triphop meets alternative R&B, Amindi is a true LA jewel and a force to be reckoned with, there’s not a doubt in our minds that 2023 will be another killer year for Amindi. Check out her most recent single “50/50” which dropped last month, and listen to the rest of her catalog here.
21. Hana Vu
Hana Vu (@hanavuuu) may have had a lowkey 2022, but that didn’t stop Pookie from including this incredible artist on our list of names to watch out for in the new year. 23 year old Hana Vu’s musical journey has been long in the making. Entering LA’s underground music scene when she was only 14, opening for bands like Soccer Mommy and Wet, Hana’s discography on Spotify goes all the way back to her first releases in 2016. Her latest album “Public Storage” (2021) is comprised of 12 songs, each written and produced by Hana herself. Whisking together distorted, fuzzy indie rock and electro-pop tendencies, Vu creates mesmerizing records that touch on themes of guilt, frustration, and consequence. Exuding wisdom beyond her years, Hana Vu’s musical works will surely captivate you, get to know an exceptional local LA musician by clicking here.
22. grouptherapy.
3 individuals, 1 unit. Jadagrace, Coy Stewart (aka SWIM) and TJOnline come together as grouptherapy.. (@grouptherapydot) an LA-based music collective whose ascension to the top is unfolding right before our eyes. Ever since meeting at a Hollywood house party and bonding over similar childhood experiences, hiphop/rap super-trio grouptherapy.. have been releasing exceptional records and heating up stages all over LA (and the rest of the country). What separates grouptherapy. from other rising artists is their stage-readiness and honed artistic charisma. Being that each of the members has been working in the entertainment industry since they were minors, it appears their years of hard work have prepared them well. grouptherapy. is a name you need to be familiar with, Pookie is positive that this band will be a household name within the coming years. Check out their music here. Love.
23. Paco
Last but certainly not least, we would like to conclude our 2023 list of rising stars with the one and only: Paco (@es.pacoo). Hailing from St. Louis, Paco is one of my favorite artist discoveries of 2022. It all began when I heard a song called “Pretty Boy”, an alt. r&b dance pop track that I’ve listened to countless times now. His music is experimental, dynamic, upbeat, groovy, and completely refreshing, making Paco an excellent choice if you’re looking to discover new great music. Every record from this artist is dope, and reminds me why I’d rather spend my time discovering genuinely great underground artists rather than listening to what major labels are trying to force-feed us. Listen to Paco’s music here and get silly. Super Silly.
1/18/2023
Pookie's Picks: 23 Rising Stars of 2023
Pookie Los Angeles
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